The foundation announced this morning the launch of a capital campaign, "Beyond Medicine -- Transforming Healthcare for Our Region," intended to raise at least $5 million in cash and pledges to offset construction costs.

"This region has just been very supportive of health care," said Ruth Heffel, executive director of the foundation. "They see the need for their families and their friends, so we've been lucky that way."

A silent phase of the campaign began shortly after Hays Med's board of directors approved final construction plans in April.

A separate goal of $2 million has been set for endowed funds, and a total of $3.1 million has been raised so far.

Remaining construction costs will be paid from the hospital's budget.

The project includes construction of a new four-story medical office tower, which has been named Bickle Family Tower in honor of benefactor Don Bickle, who also is one of the campaign's chairmen.

"The expansion and renovation project is an investment in our community," Bickle said in a press release, "and solidifies Hays Med as an important asset to not only Ellis County but the surrounding region."

Co-chairman for the campaign is Dr. Jeff Curtis, an interventional cardiologist at Hays Med.

The foundation has not conducted a capital campaign since 2001. As the hospital's coverage area continues to expand, the foundation also hopes to grow its solicitation base, Heffel said.

Heffel noted community support has remained strong, despite lingering economic concerns.

"We feel very good about the response we've had so far," she said. "We have a lot of generous donors and generous people in our community and the region."

For more information or to make a donation, call the foundation at (785) 623-2350 or visit www.haysmedfoundation.org.